Decisive Cravings - Melbourne food cafe and restaurant reviews

Cooking Classes Melbourne

Foodie Stuff / Gifts

Cooking Classes Melbourne

by Decisive Cravings

Cover image by Shelley Price For those of us who love home cooking, an occasional short course, workshop or cooking class is the perfect way to learn new dishes and techniques, as well as sharpen existing skills. Thanks to upskilled.edu.au, I’ve rounded up some of the key cooking classes in Melbourne...

Melbourne Salami Festa 2016

Melbourne Salami Festa 2016

by Decisive Cravings

Melbourne’s favourite ‘snag fest’ returns for its FIFTH birthday in 2016. The Melbourne Salami Festa celebrates the art and tradition of salami making, and invites makers to have their homemade salami judged by a panel of aficionados and experts. This year’s judging panel includes: Rosa Mitchell (Rosa’s Kitchen & Rosa’s Canteen), Frank Camorra (Movida), Adrian Richardson (La Luna...

Melbourne Food Festivals & Events 2016 - 2017

Melbourne Food Festivals & Events 2016 – 2017

by Decisive Cravings

MELBOURNE FOOD FESTIVALS AND EVENTS 2016 – 2017 Melbourne’s coffee and food culture has grown exponentially in recent times. Cafés open (and sometimes close) at a rate too hard to keep up with. There are endless food crazes – first macarons/macaroons, then cronuts, smashed avo (not disappearing anytime soon), anything and everything with...

Cider Roast Chicken Recipe

Cider Roast Chicken Recipe

by Decisive Cravings

This Cider Roast Chicken Recipe really fits the phrase ‘winner winner chicken dinner’, it is a real winner. About four years ago Ian and I holidayed in Europe for a brief two weeks. One of our stops was Paris were we stayed with some of his family friends. During our stay...

Native Australian Bush Food

Consciousness / Foodie Stuff / Recipes

Native Australian Bush Food

by Decisive Cravings

Quandong – image source: theleafstore.com.au As an Australian I feel like I should know more about native Australian bush food. It feels wrong that I know so little about the produce that literally grows in our backyard. So, in my latest overview food piece I’m focusing on native Australian...

Bangkok Eats

Travelling Foodie

Bangkok Eats

by Decisive Cravings

The baked eggs at Toby’s on Sukhumvit 38 Bangkok is widely regarded as one of the most exciting culinary cities in the world. This year The Telegraph UK featured Bangkok as number 10 out of 16 of the world’s greatest cities for food. The incredible Thai street food culture makes...

Buying your first piping bag set

Foodie Stuff / Recipes / Sweets

Buying your first piping bag set

by Decisive Cravings

The basic piping set available from Daiso – image by Jen Curcio Baking is something that I take in stages. Like anything in the kitchen, once I feel like I’ve got the hang of a specific type of recipe, I graduate myself to the next stage. Currently, that is learning...

Affitadu Recipe

Affitadu Recipe

by Decisive Cravings

‘Affitadu’ is the Sardinian word for ‘sliced’. In Affitadu, a recipe creation of my Nonna’s post-wartime, old bread is the hero. It is an alternative to lasagna, particularly back then when cooking had to be improvised due to the scarcity of so many ingredients. This is comfort food at heart and...

Tom Yam Soup with Mushrooms

Dinner / Recipes / Vegetarian

Tom Yam Soup with Mushrooms

by Decisive Cravings

Tom Yam, Thailand’s famous hot and sour soup has got to be one of my all-time favourite Thai dishes. All the elements of Thai cuisine gather together beautifully in this sweet, salty, hot, sour concoction bursting with flavour, aroma and texture. There are many versions of the iconic Tom...

Travel: Echuca Moama

Dinner / Foodie Stuff / Lunch / Travelling Foodie

Travel: Echuca Moama

by Decisive Cravings

Junction Bar at Junction Moama – image supplied by Junction Moama Back in April, the DC team was invited to enjoy a very special weekend away in the twin towns of Echuca Moama. Echuca Moama is a two and a half hour drive from Melbourne’s CBD. The town of Echuca is located...

Potato Fritters

Brekkie / Dinner / Lunch / Recipes / Vegan / Vegetarian

Potato Fritters

by Decisive Cravings

When it comes to go-to recipes, I like them to be easy and delicious – these potato fritters satisfy both requirements. This recipe has some spring onions thrown in for a little extra flavour, but apart from that all you need are literally potatoes, salt and pepper and some...

Braised Apple and Cabbage

Dinner / Recipes / Vegetarian

Braised Apple and Cabbage

by Decisive Cravings

Braised apple and cabbage has been a regular feature in our home cooked meals of late. Cabbage seems to be everywhere in Thailand, it’s extremely cheap and is one of the more nutritious vegetables going round, so it’s a win win really. I generally serve braised apple and cabbage when I make potato...

One Pan Potatoes

Dinner / Recipes / Vegan / Vegetarian

One Pan Potatoes

by Decisive Cravings

One Pan Potatoes is a simple but incredibly satisfying dish to eat. It is intended as a side dish but for some reason it always ends up being the main. This recipe is an adaptation of my Italian Aunts’ sliced potatoes, which she adds to a steamed fish dish she makes....

Travel: How I Research Travel Accommodation

Foodie Stuff / Travelling Foodie

Travel: How I Research Travel Accommodation

by Decisive Cravings

Our recent Airbnb booking at an eco-homestay in Chiang Rai In terms of travelling, my choices have changed a lot over the last five to eight years. In my 20s I had little qualms about staying at a backpackers or a hostel, as long as it was clean and I felt safe....

Eggplant and Tomato Braise

Dinner / Foodie Stuff / Recipes / Vegan / Vegetarian

Eggplant and Tomato Braise

by Decisive Cravings

This eggplant and tomato braise has been a staple at our place for a good year or so. I started making it when we lived in Jakarta as an excuse to test out the local eggplants, which were so foreign to the purple eggplant I grew up with. The dish itself...

Travel: Masseria Potenti

Consciousness / Foodie Stuff / Recipes / Travelling Foodie

Travel: Masseria Potenti

by Decisive Cravings

1. Chiara, you and your family own Masseria Potenti, a boutique hotel in Puglia, Italy. Could you tell us about the property and its history? Our Masseria is a hidden resort in the heart of Salento, Apulia Italy. It is housed in a sixteenth century Masseria (farm house that you can find only...

Hazelnut and Apple Crumble

Foodie Stuff / Recipes / Sweets

Hazelnut and Apple Crumble

by Decisive Cravings

Apple crumble just like apple pie, is a comfort food I enjoy all year round but particularly so in winter. Although I can’t complain about the weather in Thailand (compared to Melbourne), rainy season has set in and the rain which I’ve keenly awaited to relieve the high summer...

Consciousness / Foodie Stuff

Foodie Profile #30: Cultivating Community

by Decisive Cravings

Peta Christensen of Cultivating Community on the far right at a recent event 1. Peta, you are the Food Systems and Partnerships Team Leader at Cultivating Community. Could you tell us more about what Cultivating Community does? Cultivating Community is a small Melbourne based NGO working in the areas...

Gasworks Arts Park Farmers Market

Consciousness / Foodie Stuff / Travelling Foodie

Gasworks Arts Park Farmers Market

by Decisive Cravings

Fresh local apples at Gasworks Arts Park Farmer’s Market – image by Naomi Owen Once a month on a Saturday morning, Gasworks Arts Park wakes up peppered with white tents, sheltering an array of organic and biodynamic produce. Flocking to these tents are happy Melbourne foodies and their pets...

Consciousness / Foodie Stuff / Gifts / Recipes / Travelling Foodie

Foodie Profile #29: Edible Flowers with Flowerdale Farm

by Decisive Cravings

Rocket flower is a popular savoury variety – image credit: The Weekly Times Farm Magazine In our latest Foodie Profile, we chat to edible flower grower, Lauren Richardson of Flowerdale Farm. We ask her about the process of growing edible flowers, her journey in the industry and the history and...

Melbourne Food Stores and Grocers

Consciousness / Foodie Stuff / Gifts / Recipes / Travelling Foodie / Vegan / Vegetarian

Melbourne Food Stores and Grocers

by Decisive Cravings

The delicious baked goods at Stocked – image by Jen Curcio Melbourne is a blessed city for foodies. We are so spoilt with fresh local food in our markets, cafe’s, restaurants and stores. However, one of our contributors Amelia Harris, recently pointed out that despite this abundance, specialty food stores in...

Indonesian Food - an Overview and Recipes

Foodie Stuff / Recipes / Travelling Foodie

Indonesian Food – an Overview and Recipes

by Decisive Cravings

Indonesian ingredients – image by Anggara Mahendra Ibu Sisca Soewitomo is dubbed as the ‘Queen of Indonesian Cuisine’. She has dedicated her 50-year career to nourishing Indonesia’s evolving culinary scene. A pioneer of Indonesian TV cooking, many an aspiring young chef has tuned-in to watch this revered Ibu dish up national...

Consciousness / Foodie Stuff / Recipes

Foodie Profile #28 – Basil Natoli

by Decisive Cravings

Basil Natoli – image by David Shen 1. Basil, you are a teacher, gardener and activist. Could you tell us about your journey and work in these respective areas? Of greatest influence I am sure was experience and exposure as a child to my grandfather’s garden at Black Rock, the...

Review: Tucker Street

Consciousness / Dinner / Foodie Stuff / Gifts / I'm Allergic / Recipes

Review: Tucker Street

by Decisive Cravings

Tucker Street Steak tacos with coriander salsa and feta A few weeks back, we were gifted (very generously) a food delivery from our friends, Tucker Street. Our guest contributor David Shen, also the recipient talks us through his experience below and what you can expect if you use the Tucker...

Recipe: Zucchini Fritters with Smoked Trout

Brekkie / Dinner / Foodie Stuff / I'm Allergic / Recipes / Vegetarian

Recipe: Zucchini Fritters with Smoked Trout

by Decisive Cravings

I, like any true Melbournian, love brunch, so whenever I’ve been to the Farmers Market at Gasworks Arts Park of a morning, I tend to pick up some fresh produce and head home to create something delicious for my sleepy household. Here’s one of my favourite brunch recipes, zucchini...

Consciousness / Dinner / Foodie Stuff / Travelling Foodie / Vegan / Vegetarian

Foodie Profile #27 – Tamil Feasts

by Decisive Cravings

Dori (former team leader) with Sri (left) and Nirma (right) – image by Marianne Mills Tamil Feasts is a Melbourne based social enterprise that supports recently settled asylum seekers through the celebration of food and culture. Serving up traditional Sri Lankan fare prepared by Tamil men currently seeking asylum in Australia, these...

Home Chefs #12 - Watermelon and Radish Salad with Feta

Dinner / Foodie Stuff / I'm Allergic / Lunch / Recipes / Vegetarian

Home Chefs #12 – Watermelon and Radish Salad with Feta

by Decisive Cravings

Watermelon and Radish salad with Feta by Tucker Street Serves: 4-6 people as a side Time to prepare: 10 minutes Oh so refreshing and super quick, this salad can be prepped ahead of time and sit pretty in the fridge until serving time. Tucker Street recommends teaming this with Middle-Eastern...

Home Chefs #11 - Char-grilled Corn and Peach Slaw

Dinner / Foodie Stuff / I'm Allergic / Lunch / Recipes / Vegan / Vegetarian

Home Chefs #11 – Char-grilled Corn and Peach Slaw

by Decisive Cravings

Char-grilled Corn and Peach Slaw By Tucker Street Serves: 4 people Time to prepare: 15 minutes Our friends at Tucker Street have kindly shared this jazzed up summer slaw full of colour and flavour, and perfect for BBQs! A seasonal recipe, it makes the most of sweet summery peaches, is full of...

Review: Gewürzhaus

Consciousness / Foodie Stuff / Gifts / I'm Allergic / Travelling Foodie

Review: Gewürzhaus

by Decisive Cravings

Gewürzhaus is the type of shop that foodies fall in love with the moment they step through the door, possibly even before as they glare at the goodies that await them beyond the window. In essence, Gewürzhaus is exactly what it translates to from German, ‘spice house’. The stores...

Home Chefs #10 - Double Ginger Cake

Foodie Stuff / I'm Allergic / Recipes / Snacks / Sweets

Home Chefs #10 – Double Ginger Cake

by Decisive Cravings

Double Ginger Cake (Makes one small bread loaf tin size) I love ginger. I love how half a teaspoon of ginger will add a warm element to a winter casserole, I love how a cup of ginger tea both relaxes and refreshes me and I love how dark...

Foodie Stuff / Gifts / Travelling Foodie

Foodie Profile #26 – Tamsin Carvan of Tamsin’s Table

by Decisive Cravings

A hilltop farmhouse looking over 113 acres of Poowong East in country Victoria, is the home of Tamsin Carver. In recent years she has opened up her home and property running lunches, gatherings and workshops under the name Tamsin’s Table. Here there are cooking classes, shared harvest lunches and...

Foodie Stuff / Travelling Foodie

Foodie Profile #25 – Lynda Gardener

by Decisive Cravings

Lynda Gardener herself – image by Dan Magree 1. Lynda, you are a stylist and decorator – could you share your journey in the industry and your creative interests? I started very early in my working life…..as a secretary (19yrs old) in the fashion industry. I worked out pretty...

Travel: Myanmar Food Mini Guide

Foodie Stuff / Travelling Foodie

Travel: Myanmar Food Mini Guide

by Decisive Cravings

Making Vegetable Tempura at Mr Min’s Cooking Class Myanmar (formerly Burma) officially lifted a boycott of inbound foreign tourism in 2010, after nearly half a century. Since then, the tourism industry there, among other aspects, has been developing at a rapid pace. This also applies to the food and...

Foodie Stuff / Gifts / Travelling Foodie

Foodie Profile #24: Ayu Larasati

by Decisive Cravings

Ayu Larasati taken by Nathanael Christian In our first Foodie Profile of 2016, we talk to Ayu Larasati – one of Jakarta’s most celebrated young ceramicists. JC x 1. What kind of ceramic pieces do you specialise in and what have been some of your favourites? I make small batch wheel-thrown ceramics...

Event: DC Summer Gathering Wrap Up

Event: DC Summer Gathering Wrap Up

by Decisive Cravings

A big thank you to all our DC friends and family who joined us for our first reader event, the DC Summer Gathering on Sunday December 13, 2015. It was a wonderful afternoon and so incredible to meet all of you in person, listen to our inspiring speakers and...

Foodie Stuff / Gifts

Foodie Profile #23 – Winnie & Co

by Decisive Cravings

In our latest Foodie Profile, we chat to Kate Thompson of Winnie & Co and also the founder of the ultimate treat treasure chest, the baker’s drawer. If you enjoy Kate’s story, make sure you join us for our DC Summer Gathering where Kate will be sharing her story in...

Review: Caffe La Via

Brekkie / Consciousness / Dinner / Drinks / Kids / Lunch / Sweets

Review: Caffe La Via

by Decisive Cravings

The gourmet burger selection at Caffe La Via Caffe La Via is one of those restaurants you’ve driven past a hundred times but only eaten at once. It’s been on Glenferrie Rd, Malvern, for as long as I can remember. Until recently, my one dinner there was years ago and...

Travel: Daylesford and Macedon Ranges Food Mini Guide

Brekkie / Dinner / Foodie Stuff / Lunch / Sweets / Travelling Foodie

Travel: Daylesford and Macedon Ranges Food Mini Guide

by Decisive Cravings

Map of Daylesford and Macedon Ranges by DMR Tourism Local. Seasonal. Handmade. Artisan. Foraging. Farm to table. There’s never been more focus on what we eat and where it comes from. The spotlight is shining on producers as brightly as ever, with menus regularly listing suppliers and awards specifically...

Small Function and Event Spaces Melbourne

Dinner / Foodie Stuff / Lunch / Travelling Foodie

Small Function and Event Spaces Melbourne

by Decisive Cravings

Inside The Barn at The Estate Trentham – image by Lisa Cohen Photography I am always on the hunt for a good venue and in the lead up to the festive season and also our first reader gathering on December 13, I thought it would be apt to...

Recipe: Thai BBQ Pork

Foodie Stuff / Recipes / Travelling Foodie

Recipe: Thai BBQ Pork

by Decisive Cravings

Thai BBQ Pork Serves 2 Charcoal BBQ’ing is a common offering at night markets all across South East Asia. In Indonesia you will see delicious satay’s sizzling on hawker grills, in Vietnam the meat served to you to make DIY rice paper rolls, Nem nướng (meatballs or sausage), will...

Recipe: Som Tam Salad

Foodie Stuff / Recipes / Travelling Foodie

Recipe: Som Tam Salad

by Decisive Cravings

Som Tam, spicy green papaya salad, is one of the most well known dishes in Thai cuisine. A specialty of Northeastern Thailand but served all over the Kingdom and even South East Asia, it combines all the principles of Thai flavours: salty, sweet, sour and salty. It comes in...

Foodie Stuff: Springvale Gourmet Food Guide

Brekkie / Dinner / Foodie Stuff / Lunch / Sweets / Travelling Foodie / Vegan / Vegetarian

Foodie Stuff: Springvale Gourmet Food Guide

by Decisive Cravings

Live crabs for sale at one of Springvale’s many seafood markets – image by Amy Martin If living life to its fullest could be personified, Elizabeth Chong would be a pretty good example! At 84 years of age, this energetic lady with sparkly eyes and amazing skin has been running Asian...

Foodie Stuff / Gifts / Travelling Foodie

Foodie Profile #21: Gabriele Galimberti

by Decisive Cravings

I was flipping through an in-flight magazine earlier this year when I stumbled on an interview with Italian photographer, Gabriele Galimberti, about his project and book, In Her Kitchen. The concept resonated with me instantly – a book of stories, portraits and recipes from grandmothers all over the world....

Foodie Stuff / Travelling Foodie

Foodie Profile #20 – Plants on Pink

by Decisive Cravings

Image by @mija_mija If you are on Instagram and you haven’t stumbled upon the PlantsonPink account, coming across it was inevitable. PlantsonPink has been a refreshing find not only because it isolates nature in an online medium but because on some level it allows us to start taking notice of the...

Vegan Recipes

Foodie Stuff / I'm Allergic / Recipes / Vegan / Vegetarian

Vegan Recipes

by Decisive Cravings

For our vegan friends and followers of vegan diets, I’ve rounded up all our vegan recipes on the site so you can find them in one magic post! We have some wonderful recipes that will take you through almost every meal in the day. Enjoy! JC x Coconut...

Five Food Workshops Worth Bookmarking

Foodie Stuff / Travelling Foodie

Five Food Workshops Worth Bookmarking

by Decisive Cravings

For foodies, food bloggers and creative types, a food workshop will most definitely be on your to-do list. From learning to hand make pasta post harvesting the ingredients for it, understanding how to pimp your iPhone food photos or just fondling stunning kitchen props for food styling, there are...

Foodie Stuff / Gifts / Sweets

Foodie Profile #19: Cake Ink

by Decisive Cravings

Cake Ink’s gorgeous sweet creations – image by Danielle Trovato and Sotiria McDonald In our latest Foodie Profile, we chat with the inspiring and super creative duo, Samone and Janelle of cult Melbourne Cake and Stationery brand, Cake Ink. Learn how they met, the ins and outs of what they do, as well...

Travel: Mornington Peninsula Food Mini Guide

Dinner / Foodie Stuff / Lunch / Travelling Foodie

Travel: Mornington Peninsula Food Mini Guide

by Decisive Cravings

The Mornington Peninsula is Victoria’s original playground. Only an hour’s drive from Melbourne, its food and wine offerings are as well-known as its beaches and seaside towns. There’s been a wave of new openings in the last year or so. Taking in some old favourites and some new ones,...

Social Food Projects and Events Melbourne

Consciousness / Dinner / Drinks / Foodie Stuff / Gifts / Travelling Foodie

Social Food Projects and Events Melbourne

by Decisive Cravings

Are you a fan of eating and dining with purpose? Fantastic, so are we! Here is a round up of some inspiring social food projects and events in Melbourne that allow you to enjoy your experience twice by offering you a fantastic meal/drink that goes to a deserving cause....

In Season: Asparagus Recipes

Consciousness / Foodie Stuff / Recipes

In Season: Asparagus Recipes

by Decisive Cravings

Asparagus is up there when it comes to my favourite green veggies. I love it grilled, steamed, on its own, added to salads – any way really. There are many ways to use asparagus and please feel free to share your asparagus recipes in the comments. My favourites though...

Social Enterprise Caterers Melbourne

Brekkie / Consciousness / Dinner / Foodie Stuff / Lunch

Social Enterprise Caterers Melbourne

by Decisive Cravings

Melbourne now has a great range of options when it comes to social enterprise caterers. If you’re hosting or organising an event you might like to consider hiring a caterer where the proceeds truly go to a worthy cause. Here is a round of up of social enterprise...

Foodie Stuff: The Art of Breakfast in Bed

Brekkie / Foodie Stuff / Recipes

Foodie Stuff: The Art of Breakfast in Bed

by Decisive Cravings

Birthdays and celebrations are a BIG deal in my family. It’s not just cards and cake but the thought and combined effort from everyone to make the birthday person feel special. One of my earliest memories of birthdays and one that exemplifies this notion, is breakfast in bed. It was...

Foodie Stuff: In the Pantry #3

Foodie Stuff / Gifts

Foodie Stuff: In the Pantry #3

by Decisive Cravings

In the Pantry is our newest segment on DC, featuring products from inside the pantries of the DC team and sometimes even our readers. A regular round up of products we absolutely love, we’ll tell you why we love them, how to use them and where they can be...

Foodie Stuff: Grocery Shopping for Good

Consciousness / Foodie Stuff / Gifts

Foodie Stuff: Grocery Shopping for Good

by Decisive Cravings

The newly launched Asylum Resource Centre Food Justice Truck – image source ASRC In the last few years, the rise of social enterprises has made it much simpler for consumers to shop consciously. Not only are we buying things we need, these products have the doubled benefit of helping...

Travel: Glamping in Melbourne

Foodie Stuff / Gifts / Travelling Foodie

Travel: Glamping in Melbourne

by Decisive Cravings

Image source: Happyglamper.com.au ‘Glamping’ (glamorous camping), seems to be a continually growing trend. If you are planning a spot of camping or considering an outdoorsy trip with friends, I’ve searched around and found three companies doing something a little different. If you can’t be bothered with the technical set...

Foodie Stuff: Picnicking in Melbourne

Foodie Stuff / Kids / Recipes / Travelling Foodie

Foodie Stuff: Picnicking in Melbourne

by Decisive Cravings

Whether they are held in your backyard, at a park or indoors on a rainy day, picnics are literally one of the loveliest ways to spend an afternoon. As an homage to the picnic and the warmer weather to come, I’ve put together a mini guide to picnicking in...

Event: Melbourne Salami Festa 2015

Foodie Stuff / Kids

Event: Melbourne Salami Festa 2015

by Decisive Cravings

It’s back! Melbourne’s favourite sausage fest returns for its fourth pork party. Not only does the Melbourne Salami Festa celebrate the art and tradition of salami making, it invites makers to have their homemade salami judged by a panel of aficionados and experts. This year’s judging panel includes: Festa patron Guy...

Travel: Cool Cafe's in Chiang Mai

Drinks / Foodie Stuff / Travelling Foodie

Travel: Cool Cafe’s in Chiang Mai

by Decisive Cravings

My recollections of Chiang Mai back on my first visit as a 20 year old backpacker, is of a friendly city – one that was used to tourists with its night markets and tour packages on offer at every second storefront. On my recent return a mere 11 years...

Home Chefs #9: Pickled Red Cabbage

Foodie Stuff / Recipes

Home Chefs #9: Pickled Red Cabbage

by Decisive Cravings

Pickled Red Cabbage Makes two large salads My new neighbour, Cecile, has contributed this delicious pickled red cabbage recipe to DC. She is a lovely, witty Belgian woman with lots of personality. She dropped off some of this delicious salad for me to try and I...

Recipe: Simple Chicken and Veggie Seasoning

Recipe: Simple Chicken and Veggie Seasoning

by Decisive Cravings

Everyone has their favourite ingredients to work with when seasoning meat and vegetables. When it comes to a simple seasoning for chicken and veggies – this recipe is my go-to. As I’ve mentioned in Saving Tips for Foodies, I often prepare a batch of chicken and have it sitting...

Foodie Stuff: Dandenong Gourmet Food Guide

Brekkie / Dinner / Foodie Stuff / Lunch / Sweets / Travelling Foodie / Vegan / Vegetarian

Foodie Stuff: Dandenong Gourmet Food Guide

by Decisive Cravings

Baker Andrew Lipiszko with a freshly baked batch of Polish pretzels I’m not much of a television viewer but one of my guilty TV pleasures is watching foodie shows. Right at the top of that list is the locally produced Food Safari hosted by Maeve O’Meara. Not only is...

Bangkok Cafe's

Brekkie / Drinks / Foodie Stuff / Lunch / Sweets / Travelling Foodie

Bangkok Cafe’s

by Decisive Cravings

Roots Coffee Roasters in Bangkok I first travelled to Bangkok at the end of 2004. It was thriving with life and movement, and I fell in love with its hustle and bustle straight away. I returned again in 2005 before embarking on a round-the-world trip. Fast forward 10 years and...

Foodie Stuff: In the Pantry #2

Foodie Stuff / Gifts

Foodie Stuff: In the Pantry #2

by Decisive Cravings

Welcome to In the Pantry, a NEW segment featuring products from inside the pantries of the DC team and even some of our readers. A regular round up of products we absolutely love, we’ll tell you why we love them, how to use them and where they can be bought....

Review: Vietnamese Cooking Class at OTAO Kitchen

Foodie Stuff / Gifts / Recipes

Review: Vietnamese Cooking Class at OTAO Kitchen

by Decisive Cravings

Pho Cuon with Nuoc Cham (fresh rice noodle rolls with dipping sauce) I’ve mentioned my love of Vietnamese pho before. It’s one of my favourite comfort dishes, no matter the time of year. I’ve tried making it at home on numerous occasions using various recipes but, for whatever reason,...

Chocolate Chip Cookies (eggless)

I'm Allergic / Recipes / Sweets

Chocolate Chip Cookies (eggless)

by Decisive Cravings

Chocolate Chip Cookies (eggless) Makes 15-16 small to medium sized cookies – recipe adapted from Spice Up the Curry. Don’t let the ‘eggless’ part fool you. This is one of the best soft and chewy, chocolate chip cookie recipes I’ve ever made. I have been baking the odd choc-chip cookie for...

Recipe: Roast Pumpkin

Recipe: Roast Pumpkin

by Decisive Cravings

Since moving to Thailand I can’t help but notice pumpkins. They’re at every market, supermarket, road stall – you get the picture. It’s safe to say that for the next little while it will be become a staple in our diets here – and it has already! Apart from...

Foodie Stuff: Saving Tips for Foodies

Consciousness / Foodie Stuff

Foodie Stuff: Saving Tips for Foodies

by Decisive Cravings

How to save when you’re a foodie. It almost sounds like an oxymoron really, but how do you do it? There comes a time in your foodie life when you begin to wonder why you can’t save more and are living pay cheque to pay cheque. If you go over...

Recipe: Bircher Muesli

Brekkie / I'm Allergic / Recipes / Snacks

Recipe: Bircher Muesli

by Decisive Cravings

Bircher Muesli is a breakfast that has been disappearing off the menus of many cafes. Such a shame but the good new is that is so, so good and easy to make. The traditional recipe by the famed man himself, Maximilian Bircher-Benner, a Swiss physician, created the recipe as a...

Travel: Seoul Mini Guide

Foodie Stuff / Travelling Foodie

Travel: Seoul Mini Guide

by Decisive Cravings

In May of 2015 I travelled to Seoul, South Korea – a city that had been on my list for quite a number of years. When I arrived at Seoul Incheon airport I was armed with an extensively researched itinerary and high expectations. In short, Seoul did not disappoint. The bus ride...

Review: Melbourne's Best Hot Chocolate

Drinks / Foodie Stuff / Kids / Sweets

Review: Melbourne’s Best Hot Chocolate

by Decisive Cravings

Bibelot’s hot chocolate Strange hours, spending the day at a crime scene or staking out someone’s house and coffee are the staples of police reporting. During my time as a police reporter at Melbourne’s Herald Sun newspaper I used to wake up to the 4.48am alarm on my mobile phone...

Travel: Wellness and Cooking in Rishikesh

Consciousness / Foodie Stuff / I'm Allergic / Travelling Foodie / Vegetarian

Travel: Wellness and Cooking in Rishikesh

by Decisive Cravings

At the beginning of 2014, I started a path of healing my body using food. I cut caffeine, refined sugar, soy, dairy, gluten and processed foods from my diet to nourish my body to wellness. India had been calling me for some time so it seemed the natural next step in...

Foodie Stuff: In the Pantry #1

Foodie Stuff / Gifts / Recipes

Foodie Stuff: In the Pantry #1

by Decisive Cravings

Welcome to In the Pantry, a NEW segment featuring products from inside the pantries of the DC team! A regular round up of products we absolutely love, we’ll tell you why we heart them, how to use them and where they can be bought. Do you have a favourite...

Suspended Coffee - a Tradition of Kindness

Consciousness / Foodie Stuff / Travelling Foodie

Suspended Coffee – a Tradition of Kindness

by Decisive Cravings

There are so many acts of kindness I’ve observed over the years. People handing me their unfinished paid parking tickets, discovering a ‘pass-it-on’ book left on a park bench and the cashier who gifted me an extra Citizen Cocoa truffle. One act that I have not been on the receiving...

Travel: Locavore Restaurant Ubud

Consciousness / Travelling Foodie

Travel: Locavore Restaurant Ubud

by Decisive Cravings

Following a very strong recommendation from my sister whose opinion I value highly and that of her boyfriend who is an experienced Chef, I decided to treat myself on my latest trip to Bali by booking in a lunch degustation at Locavore in Ubud. To be honest I have been straying...

Winter Warmer Recipes

Winter Warmer Recipes

by Decisive Cravings

I’ve put together some of our best winter warmer recipes across the site to keep you warm and full during the colder months! From soups to pastas, all our winter warmer recipes are easy to make and flavoursome. There are a couple that will be great for work lunches...

Travel: Portland Food Mini Guide

Travelling Foodie

Travel: Portland Food Mini Guide

by Decisive Cravings

Think great American foodie cities and New York, San Francisco and Chicago come to mind. Then there are places like Seattle, home to Pike Place Market, New Orleans with its Creole cuisine and Austin for finger-licking BBQ. Portland, Oregon, hasn’t always been an obvious addition to the list. But this...

Review: Bistro Thierry

Review: Bistro Thierry

by Decisive Cravings

Prix Fixe entrées: freshly shucked oysters and Steak Tartare The best kind of friendships, are the ones that remain unchanged despite time apart. In my opinion the best restaurants are the same. Bistro Thierry forms part of an old group of restaurants for me that are at the core...

Recipe: Bachelorette Eggs

Recipe: Bachelorette Eggs

by Decisive Cravings

Bachelorette Eggs Serves one This recipe is definitely my go-to when my partner in crime is away. I have a host of recipes for one that makes cooking easy but these Bachelorette Eggs are by far my favourite. Comforting, filling, flavoursome, easy and hearty – this one ticks all...

Travel: New York Food Mini Guide

Foodie Stuff / Gifts / Travelling Foodie

Travel: New York Food Mini Guide

by Decisive Cravings

If there’s anywhere that has my heart it’s New York. Four holidays, the most recent in April 2015, and a stint living and working there and I’m already thinking about when I’m going back and where I’m eating next. I like to keep my days open, explore my favourite neighbourhoods...

Review: Green Press

Brekkie / Consciousness / Foodie Stuff / I'm Allergic / Lunch / Sweets / Vegan / Vegetarian

Review: Green Press

by Decisive Cravings

Hot on the heels of our big sister cities around the world, Melbourne is getting serious about real, healthy, whole food. Yes it’s been possible to get a green smoothie or quinoa salad on café menus for some time, but what we’re talking about now is pressed juices, raw salads,...

Event: CJ Hendry Exhibition

Events / Foodie Stuff

Event: CJ Hendry Exhibition

by Decisive Cravings

Apart from seeing family on my most recent dash (three days) back to Melbourne over Easter, I had only two other ‘musts’: 1) visiting Pana Chocolate and 2) checking out CJ Hendry’s latest exhibition. I am glad to report that I fulfilled both pre-requisites on the list and that...

Melbourne Chocoholics Tours

Foodie Stuff / Gifts / Sweets / Travelling Foodie

Melbourne Chocoholics Tours

by Decisive Cravings

Some of the delights on offer at Cacao Lab Melbourne is internationally renowned for its food and its laneways – brought together in a delightfully sweet way by the team at Chocoholics Tours. Founded in 1995 when Suzie Wharton realised her vision of a chocolate and desserts walking tour...

Event: Ubud Food Festival 2015

Foodie Stuff / Travelling Foodie

Event: Ubud Food Festival 2015

by Decisive Cravings

Cooking demonstration, image by Matt Oldfield Three words: Ubud Food Festival. This is an event that warrants a mandatory visit by locals and justifiable attendance by non-locals. It is hard to believe that this year will be the first to see an event of this kind and scale in Bali....

Meatless Meals Recipes

Consciousness / Foodie Stuff / Recipes / Vegetarian

Meatless Meals Recipes

by Decisive Cravings

Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan or not – there are meatless meals here for everyone. Starters, salads, mains and sides have all been catered for. This little collection of recipes will help you see how easy it is to include more veggie based meals in your diet, as well as...

Recipe: Easter Eggs

Recipe: Easter Eggs

by Decisive Cravings

Originally, I thought it might be nice to have a healthy recipe for Easter Eggs, but then how are Easter Eggs what they are without the chocolate? Hence, the addition of some coconut cream and chocolate ganache to make them a little more festive! The basic recipe for the...

Heide MOMA Volunteers Recipe Swap

Consciousness / Foodie Stuff

Heide MOMA Volunteers Recipe Swap

by Decisive Cravings

Heide III Interior The same lovely girl who almost two years ago, shared her Coconut and Raspberry Cake recipe with me also mentioned she was a volunteer at Heide MOMA. In fact, she revealed that her fellow volunteers had started a Recipe Swap, and at this my interest clearly peaked!...

Event: Dine from Melba's Garden Wrap Up

Brekkie / Dinner / Drinks / Foodie Stuff / Lunch / Travelling Foodie / Vegetarian

Event: Dine from Melba’s Garden Wrap Up

by Decisive Cravings

The restaurant facade The Coombe Cottage During her lifetime, Dame Nellie Melba was renowned for putting on a good show, both on and off stage. She was the first Australian musician to achieve international recognition and is considered by some one of Australia’s most famous and talented opera singers...

Foodie Stuff / Travelling Foodie

Foodie Profile #17 – Janet DeNeefe

by Decisive Cravings

A visit to Bali over thirty years ago changed Janet DeNeefe’s life course forever. From her guesthouse to her cafes and restaurants, as well as the world famous Ubud Writers and Readers Festival she has made an invaluable contribution to the Island and is one of its greatest promoters globally....

Pinterest: Kitchens

Pinterest: Kitchens

by Decisive Cravings

Image credit: ABeautifulMess.com When I’m not on Instagram or Facebook, I’ll only be in one other ‘place’ and that’s Pinterest. An ode to one of the social mediums substituting real life, this is the first of a number of Pinterest round ups where I’ll share some of the pins...

Foodie Stuff / Gifts / I'm Allergic / Sweets

Foodie Profile #16 – Georgie Castle of Citizen Cacao

by Decisive Cravings

Citizen Cacao Raw Truffles (image: Rochelle Seator) There are some people you meet who just radiate kindness. Georgie Castle is one of those people. The first time we met, it was like we’d been friends for years and not only is she a lovely person…she also makes THE most amazing raw,...

Recipe: Chocolate Beetroot Cake with Coconut

Recipes / Sweets

Recipe: Chocolate Beetroot Cake with Coconut

by Decisive Cravings

Chocolate Beetroot Cake with Coconut Serves 8-12 (using a standard sized cake tin) This is probably the fanciest cake I have ever made. Having said that most of the cakes I bake don’t usually have ganache, toppings or sprinkles. Nonetheless, it is always good to have a fancier looking cake in...

Review: Ruyi

Dinner / I'm Allergic / Lunch / Vegetarian

Review: Ruyi

by Decisive Cravings

I’ve never been a fan of Chinese food (actually technically that’s not true, one of my old friends is half-Chinese and his Mum always makes amazing dishes), my only Chinese restaurant experiences had been bowls of gluggy, MSG-filled, deep fried food. Before Ruyi. This place has completely changed my perspective....

Review: Pomodoro Sardo

Dinner / Lunch / Vegetarian

Review: Pomodoro Sardo

by Decisive Cravings

Calamari fritti, mixed bread and prosciutto with buffalo mozzarella Pomodoro Sardo, formerly Pomodoro Rosso in the CBD is another restaurant that is close to my heart. It is one of only a handful of Sardinian restaurants in Melbourne, and being half Sardinian I always feel a little closer to my...

Recipe: Coconut and Raspberry Mini Cakes

Recipe: Coconut and Raspberry Mini Cakes

by Decisive Cravings

Our most popular recipe on the site is our Coconut and Raspberry Cake (gluten and dairy free). Given we are approaching the site’s two year anniversary I wanted to do something with this recipe so it could be diversified from just a cake. I decided to trial using the mixture...

Recipe: Pimped Out Garden Salad

Recipes / Vegetarian

Recipe: Pimped Out Garden Salad

by Decisive Cravings

I love this salad, so, so much! It wasn’t really intentional when I first made it, I kind of just threw a few things together and ended up with something that has now become a go-to. I’ve called it Pimped Out Salad because at its core it is a garden salad...

Review: The Emerson

Dinner / Drinks / Late night / Lunch / Snacks

Review: The Emerson

by Decisive Cravings

The summer holidays are over, at least for most of us anyway. Reluctantly, we have swapped our bathers and cocktails for suits and ties. However, while the 9-to-5 routine may have reinstated itself, the warm weather is still here and Melbournians are still in party mode; drinks after work...

Recipe: Mandarin Lime Semolina Cake

Recipe: Mandarin Lime Semolina Cake

by Decisive Cravings

This delicious Mandarin Lime Semolina cake is a twist of an Italian classic that my Mum has made many times over the years (the smell of the almond meal while it’s baking in the oven always reminds me of her). The addition of the citrusy juice topping gives the cake just...

Party Recipes: Starters Salads and Desserts

Foodie Stuff / Recipes

Party Recipes: Starters Salads and Desserts

by Decisive Cravings

Parties and celebrations are a year round affair! Whether you are hosting or just contributing a little something I’ve put together a list of some of my favourite party recipes. From simple starters to fresh salads and yummy desserts, make entertaining or bringing a plate to a party easy, delicious...

Review: Akatombo

Review: Akatombo

by Decisive Cravings

The discovery of a good café or restaurant is generally placed into two categories for food lovers and food bloggers. Category one: tell friends, family and readership instantly, or category two: wanting to tell everyone, but just wanting to keep it to yourself a little longer. I have kept Akatombo...

Recipe: Peach Basil Yoghurt Cake

Recipe: Peach Basil Yoghurt Cake

by Decisive Cravings

This is a beautiful recipe that makes use of your favourite summer fruits. Think raspberries, plums, nectarines and apricots. In this specific recipe I have used Indonesian basil because it is local but you can also experiment with Australian basil, rosemary, thyme or sage. What I love about the Peach...

Travel: Jakarta Restaurants Mini Guide

Foodie Stuff / Travelling Foodie

Travel: Jakarta Restaurants Mini Guide

by Decisive Cravings

FJ Bistro Since my move to Jakarta in May 2014, I have had enough time sampling the local offerings to get a relatively good feel for the food scene here. In a nutshell, there is a lot of choice, a high turn over of restaurants but overall some fantastic dare...

Recipe: Chokladboll (Chocolate Balls)

Foodie Stuff / Recipes / Snacks / Sweets

Recipe: Chokladboll (Chocolate Balls)

by Decisive Cravings

Chokladboll – Chocolate balls The third and final recipe in our Swedish Fika recipe series by Simone Larsson are Chokladboll. They are a very decadent mocha treat for the Fika table. Being bite sized, they are also a great option for Christmas gifting – simply pop them in a jar,...

Catering and Event Planning Melbourne

Foodie Stuff / I'm Allergic / Travelling Foodie / Vegetarian

Catering and Event Planning Melbourne

by Decisive Cravings

To complement our Private and Group dining, and our Function and Event Spaces Melbourne guides, I’ve put together a list of some of Melbourne’s leading caterers and event planners (in my opinion). Most if not all cater for dietary requirements but I’ve also included some that cater for dietary...

Recipe: Favoritgifflar (Swedish Buns)

Recipes / Sweets

Recipe: Favoritgifflar (Swedish Buns)

by Decisive Cravings

Favoritgifflar – Swedish Buns The second recipe in our Swedish Fika recipe series by Simone Larsson are Favoritgifflar. They literally translate as Favourite Buns, and are a common feature at the Fika table. They are so moorish and the best part about them is you can tailor the filling to...

Review: Pho24

Dinner / Lunch / Vegetarian

Review: Pho24

by Decisive Cravings

I’m the first to admit that I’m not a fan of franchises. I’m not sure when or why I developed this aversion but in my opinion franchises are the restaurant equivalent of soup in can (which has never seen the inside of my pantry!). So, if I’m brutally honest,...

Review: Pastuso - Perfect Peruvian

Dinner / Drinks / I'm Allergic

Review: Pastuso – Perfect Peruvian

by Decisive Cravings

Trying to find a table in Melbourne for six people is no easy feat. All the latest restaurants only take bookings for 8 people or more, but if you can manage to secure a table for a smaller group you usually have to choose from two “sitting options”, one that’s...

Review: Sake Restaurant

Dinner / I'm Allergic / Lunch

Review: Sake Restaurant

by Decisive Cravings

Japanese is easily top of my list when it comes to cuisines. It’s the food I crave on many occasions – the freshness of sashimi, the variety of a bento box or the comfort of donburi. But I also love the welcome that comes with entering Japanese restaurants. The call...

Function and Event Spaces Melbourne

Dinner / Drinks / Foodie Stuff / Lunch

Function and Event Spaces Melbourne

by Decisive Cravings

Trunk Planning a special event really starts with finding the right venue. Like our Private and Group Dining Melbourne mini-guide, the Function and Event Spaces Melbourne mini-guide should helpfully give you a starting point when looking for a great spot for a birthday, work party, special event and even weddings....

Recipe: Kladdkaka (Chocolate Fudge Cake)

Recipes / Snacks / Sweets

Recipe: Kladdkaka (Chocolate Fudge Cake)

by Decisive Cravings

Kladdkaka (Chocolate Fudge Cake) A delicious and very simple Swedish Recipe by Simone Larsson who authored the piece Fika: the Art of a Swedish Kitchen Tradition. You literally mix all the ingredients for the Kladdkaka together, pop them in a cake pan and in the oven. Enjoy a slice...

Fika: the Art of a Swedish Kitchen Tradition

Foodie Stuff / Recipes / Sweets

Fika: the Art of a Swedish Kitchen Tradition

by Decisive Cravings

Fika, is the Swedish word for ‘coffee break’ or ‘refreshments’ but that still doesn’t quite sum it up. Swedish fika is so much more than just a cup of coffee, it’s a social phenomenon, a concept, a way of life you could say. Fika to Swedes is like the Hakuna...

Foodie Stuff / I'm Allergic / Snacks

Foodie Profile #15 – Tennille Hay of Tee’s Superfood

by Decisive Cravings

Tee working the muesli mixture in the factory Tennille Hay, or ‘Tee’ as she is known amongst friends is the creator and owner behind Tee’s Superfood, a unique range of superfood bars. As an Exercise Physiologist and Strength and Conditioning coach Tee’s knowledge of nutrition and the way the...

Private and Group Dining in Melbourne

Brekkie / Dinner / Drinks / Lunch

Private and Group Dining in Melbourne

by Decisive Cravings

I’ve had many requests over the years for recommendations on private dining rooms, as well as restaurants that allow bookings for larger groups, so now that we are well and truly in party season I thought it was about time to put together a list of where I often recommend...

Foodie Stuff / Gifts / I'm Allergic / Sweets

Foodie Profile #14 – Mad About Cakes

by Decisive Cravings

Madie Gostin of Mad About Cakes – Image Credit, Profile Pub 1. Madie, how did your business start? I have always loved to bake but pretty much fell into Cake Decorating. I remember seeing Paris Cutler’s ‘Planet Cake’ Cake Decorating book at a store and my boyfriend bought it for...

Food Gifts for Aussie Expats

Foodie Stuff / Gifts / Travelling Foodie

Food Gifts for Aussie Expats

by Decisive Cravings

In 2014 I became an expat. A visit from friends who came bearing the following bounty, made me even more aware of my nationality: Tim Tam Dark Chocolate Chocolicious Bites, Caramello Koalas and BBQ shapes. Their thoughtful gift got me thinking about all the other Australian expats scattered around...

Foodie Profile #13 – Ronni Kahn, CEO & Founder of OzHarvest

by Decisive Cravings

Ten years ago, OzHarvest became the first organisation in Australia to rescue all types of perishable food that would otherwise have been wasted. They have over 600 volunteers nationally, and have delivered 28 million meals to-date to Australians in need. We caught up with Ronni Kahn, the CEO & Founder of OzHarvest...

Insta Inspo: Lifestyle

Insta Inspo: Lifestyle

by Decisive Cravings

Just like our Link Love series, Insta Inspo is the same concept but on Instagram; a round up of people we are following whose photos we look forward to seeing in our feed. Our latest instalment is all about lifestyle and accounts all over the world that beautifully document their...

Le Jolie Cafe

Brekkie / I'm Allergic / Kids / Lunch / Snacks / Sweets / Vegetarian

Le Jolie Cafe

by Decisive Cravings

We here at Decisive Cravings have been long time lovers and supporters of Waffle Jolie, so you can only imagine our delight when we found out they were opening their own bricks and mortar venture, Le Jolie Cafe. Now we can buy those coveted Sunday market treats nearly every day...

Recipe: Coconut Porridge with banana and dates

Brekkie / Recipes

Recipe: Coconut Porridge with banana and dates

by Decisive Cravings

This has got to be one of my favourite sweet breakfast recipes. Being in Indonesia I have slightly altered the ingredients I use when cooking sweets – namely more coconut cream and dates which are just an amazing combination. This creamy concoction is a great way to break up simple...

Sweet like Chocolate - the best chocolate

Foodie Stuff / Sweets

Sweet like Chocolate – the best chocolate

by Decisive Cravings

Image credit Ferrero U.K. Saturday September 13th is International Chocolate Day. I am partaking in the celebrations by not only eating chocolate (this is a daily occurrence for me) but also sharing what in my opinion are some of the best chocolates going round (and fairly accessible to buy)....

Gift Guide: Father's Day 2014

Foodie Stuff / Gifts

Gift Guide: Father’s Day 2014

by Decisive Cravings

Father’s Day is looming (Sunday September 7). If you haven’t even had a moment to think about it yet or just have no idea what to get the man that seems to always have everything, here are some of my top gift suggestions. 1.Billy Law’s newest cookbook ‘Man Food: Good...

Gift: Boomf Marshmallows

Foodie Stuff / Gifts / Kids

Gift: Boomf Marshmallows

by Decisive Cravings

(Image by @abbietastic via Instagram) You know how there are some people that are really hard to give gifts to because they ‘have everything’? I’m pretty sure I’ve found something they won’t have…Boomf. This is not a figure of speech but the name of a company that prints photos...

Insta Inspo: Wanderlust

Foodie Stuff / Travelling Foodie

Insta Inspo: Wanderlust

by Decisive Cravings

Just like our Link Love series, Insta Inspo is the same concept but on Instagram; a round up of people we are following whose photos we look forward to seeing in our feed. This instalment is all about Insta accounts that inspire Wanderlust, or the desire to travel. Is there...

Travel: 5 Ways to Eat Like a Local

Foodie Stuff / Travelling Foodie

Travel: 5 Ways to Eat Like a Local

by Decisive Cravings

When you travel or move to a new country, it’s the simple things that make your stay: understanding whether you’re miles from town centre, transport options, the best not-so-‘sightseey’ things to do, and the top of my list – the best places to eat. Whether I’m going overseas, or interstate...

Recipe: Raw Vegan Chocolate Mousse

Recipe: Raw Vegan Chocolate Mousse

by Decisive Cravings

Raw Vegan Chocolate Mousse Makes 3-4 servings 1 large avocado 1-3 bananas 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa 1 teaspoon of cinnamon 2-3 finely chopped dates A dash of coconut oil (optional) Rice milk (optional) Blend all the ingredients together, and taste once thick and creamy. ...

Recipe: Almond Milk

Foodie Stuff / Recipes

Recipe: Almond Milk

by Decisive Cravings

Almond Milk Makes 1.5 litres 1 cup of almonds 2-4 cups of filtered water Sea salt Cheese Cloth or fine strainer Jug/Bottle Soak the almonds overnight in filtered water with a pinch of salt. Ensure the water covers the almonds to allow for swelling. Strain...

Home Chefs #7 - Potato Gnocchi with Tomato Sugo

Foodie Stuff / Recipes

Home Chefs #7 – Potato Gnocchi with Tomato Sugo

by Decisive Cravings

Since moving to Jakarta, the first food event I attended was an Italian Cooking class live via Skype with an Italian Nonna in Ancona, go figure! Dina Scataglini is the Nonna of a friend in my Indonesian Language class, Cecilia. Together with her husband Alessandro and the Italian Institute of...

Raw Cocoa, Date and Coconut Balls

Raw Cocoa, Date and Coconut Balls

by Decisive Cravings

Makes 25 2 cups of pitted Medjool dates (soak overnight in cold water) 2 cups of almond meal 1/2 cup of cocoa 4 tablespoons of cold pressed coconut oil A pinch of salt 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon A sprinkle of sesame seeds A sprinkle of desiccated coconut Optional:...

Foodie Stuff / Gifts

Foodie Profile #9 – Melanie Stapleton of Cecilia Fox

by Decisive Cravings

(Image by Eve Wilson) Melanie Stapleton is a florist, and the owner of Cecilia Fox in East Brunswick. Her team’s creations are truly stunning and they have floralised (new word I know) many incredible weddings and events (and my 30th – lol). We chatted to Melanie about how she started,...

Growing Honest Food by Gabriella Gomersall-Hubbard

Foodie Stuff / Gifts

Growing Honest Food by Gabriella Gomersall-Hubbard

by Decisive Cravings

Down a suburban street, under a canopy of Zibbibo and white grapes, on a plot of land in Keilor lies Rose Creek Estate – Melbourne’s local home of award winning wine and olive oil. In Growing Honest Food, Gabriella Gomersal-Hubbard captures the story of it’s beginnings and how from scratch...

Insta Inspo - Foodies

Insta Inspo – Foodies

by Decisive Cravings

Instagram has become one of my most obsessive addictions as of late. It’s basically the first and last thing I do each day and there is nothing I love more than finding amazing accounts around the world. There are some incredibly talented people expressing their creativity in the most engaging...

The Last Jar

Brekkie / Dinner / Drinks / Late night / Lunch

The Last Jar

by Decisive Cravings

(The bar at The Last Jar – image credit, Eugene Hyland) (Starter – Smoked Mackerel Pate with house baked Soda Bread) ‘Twas a wint’ry Melbourne eve… perfect conditions to have accepted an invitation to visit The Last Jar in North Melbourne. Formerly the live music venue The Arthouse, new owners Siobhan...

Horn Please

Dinner / Vegetarian

Horn Please

by Decisive Cravings

(The bright, vintage inspired Horn Please menu card) Husband and wife couple, Jessi and Jennifer Singh, left San Francisco for Victoria in search of a better work-life balance. San Fran’s loss is most definitely our gain and needless to say, we are simply thrilled about that. Initially settling and working...

duNORD

Dinner / Drinks / Late night / Snacks

duNORD

by Decisive Cravings

(Image credit – Tess Williams) The words ‘Scandinavia’ and ‘Nordic’ immediately bring to mind a number of things: Ikea; royal families (including our very own Princess Mary); bicycle-friendly cities; and advanced education systems to name just a few. However, I’ll be honest, food traditionally hasn’t made this list. duNORD...

Hammer and Tong

Brekkie / Dinner / Lunch / Snacks / Sweets / Vegetarian

Hammer and Tong

by Decisive Cravings

To be honest, I would suggest that before reading any further you just glance at Hammer and Tong’s menu here. Now come back and email me here if the menu alone did not excite you or inspire you to visit. To date, Hammer and Tong remains one of the most impressive...

Travel: A Foodie Weekend in Bali

Foodie Stuff / Travelling Foodie

Travel: A Foodie Weekend in Bali

by Decisive Cravings

Last weekend I was very lucky to escape from the Jakarta buzz to Bali. The island can sometimes get a bad name due to certain southern-cross-tattoo-sporting visitors or being too ‘commercial’ or crowded. But do you know what? I still love it, it is an amazing place and you can...

Link Love - the Food Segment

Foodie Stuff / Recipes

Link Love – the Food Segment

by Decisive Cravings

Introducing ‘Link Love’ – a new DC segment that celebrates cool links and sites. Our first instalment is about our main passion here at DC: food. However upcoming ‘Link Love’ segments won’t be solely food related, we will be covering a whole manner of interesting, imaginative and inspiring reads, articles and...

Home Chefs #6 - Tiramisu

Foodie Stuff / Recipes / Sweets

Home Chefs #6 – Tiramisu

by Decisive Cravings

Tiramisu is a very special dish in my family which Mum only whips up for special celebrations. After a fair bit of begging Mum finally agreed to share her recipe. Being a true ‘Home Chef’ this Tiramisu is just one of many signature meals she makes expertly, so stay tuned...

Event: Hophaus Opening

Dinner / Drinks / Foodie Stuff / Late night / Lunch

Event: Hophaus Opening

by Decisive Cravings

(Hophaus entrance in the mid level of Southgate) On arrival at this event we weren’t surprised to see Hophaus staff with trays of drinks waiting to greet us at the door but what was a bit unexpected was the choice of welcome drink – Jagermeister shots or Apple Schnapps!...

Home Chefs #5 - Curried Carrot and Lentil Soup

Home Chefs #5 – Curried Carrot and Lentil Soup

by Decisive Cravings

Curried Carrot and Lentil Soup Serves 4 This recipe has been kindly donated by Home Chef and Decisive Cravings contributor Alisia Romanin. 1 onion, chopped 1 leek (white part only), chopped 1 tspn cumin 2 tspns curry powder 5 carrots, chopped 2 cloves garlic, chopped 1...

Ribs and Burgers

Dinner / Kids / Late night / Lunch

Ribs and Burgers

by Decisive Cravings

Wow. Rib and Burger lovers I am going to say that this place is up there. A friend of mine kept raving about their Northcote restaurant, and apart from that the name (Ribs and Burgers) sounded like it had some meat to it (pardon the pun). Not...

Guest Recipe: Raw Chocolate, Tahini and Coconut Slice

I'm Allergic / Recipes / Sweets / Vegetarian

Guest Recipe: Raw Chocolate, Tahini and Coconut Slice

by Decisive Cravings

Raw Chocolate, Tahini and Coconut Slice – guest recipe by Coconut Health and Healing Serves 4 2 cups of shredded coconut 2 tablespoons of coconut oil 1 teaspoon of coconut sugar ½ cup of unhulled tahini or any nut butter of your choice 2 tbsp of raw cacao...

Combi Coffee

Brekkie / Drinks / Foodie Stuff / I'm Allergic / Lunch / Snacks / Sweets

Combi Coffee

by Decisive Cravings

(The Combi Coffee Laneway) The grand people from Combi Coffee have relocated…just down the road (in case you hadn’t seen the herds of people oozing out of the place). I was a big fan of their coffee and there was definitely a period there where I would make any...

kikki.K - Foodie Gift Range

Foodie Stuff / Gifts / Kids

kikki.K – Foodie Gift Range

by Decisive Cravings

(The kikki.K DIY Sticker Book) We all know kikki.K for their gorgeous stationery – everything they produce is stylish and fun, and more importantly they consistently deliver quality products, which is why I am more than happy to pay that bit extra. What I also love is their movement...

Foodie Stuff / Gifts / Vegetarian

Foodie Profile #7 – the Thankyou Group

by Decisive Cravings

(The Thankyou Group co-founders (L-R): Jarryd Burns, Daniel Flynn and Justine Flynn) Going back several years now, I had the pleasure of meeting Jarryd Burns (pictured) – one of the co-founders of the Thankyou Group whilst holidaying in the States. I had heard of Thankyou Water at the time but meeting him...

Mr Earl Tea

Drinks / Foodie Stuff / Gifts

Mr Earl Tea

by Decisive Cravings

(Image credit: Mr Earl Tea) Earlier this year we received a lovely package from Mr Earl Tea – a Melbourne based bespoke tea subscription service . What we love about the Mr Earl concept is that you can continually discover new teas while waiting to find your favourite. ...

Burch and Purchese

Foodie Stuff / Gifts / I'm Allergic / Kids / Sweets

Burch and Purchese

by Decisive Cravings

(Image Credit: Burch and Purchese) Burch and Purchese is a sweet shop reminiscent of the Willy Wonka Factory but smaller and no Oompa Loompa’s. Picture sweet treats of intensive imaginary proportions, like choc pops filled with caramel, Popcorn Honeycomb Rubble, jars of salted caramel, afternoon tea treats and cakes like...

Raw and Vegan Guide - Part 2

Foodie Stuff / Gifts / I'm Allergic / Recipes / Vegetarian

Raw and Vegan Guide – Part 2

by Decisive Cravings

In our part 1 of our Raw and Vegan guide we explored Melbourne cafe’s and restaurants, uncovered raw goods stores and more. In our final part 2 – we help guide you through vegan and raw cooking classes, cookbooks and even raw beauty. Please also note that this is generally a...

Raw and Vegan Guide - Part 1

Foodie Stuff / Gifts / I'm Allergic / Recipes / Vegetarian

Raw and Vegan Guide – Part 1

by Decisive Cravings

(Dinner at Yong Green Food) The vegan and raw food scene seems to be growing rapidly of late, and it’s not just fuelled by vegans and Miranda Kerr but those with severe allergies, as well as people seeking to treat their bodies a little better. From café’s, restaurants to raw...

Gluten Free Pancakes with Ferrero Rocher

Gluten Free Pancakes with Ferrero Rocher

by Decisive Cravings

Ferrero Rocher Pancakes Makes 10 medium sized pancakes. 1 cup gluten free flour ¼ teaspoon salt 1 egg, beaten 1 ½ cups of milk 2 tablespoons of butter 10 Ferrero Rocher balls (you can also use Raffaello Rocher, Snickers, Mars Bars, Bounty Bars or your favourite chocolate) ...

Foodie Profile #6 – Lucy Folk

by Decisive Cravings

(Image supplied by Lucy Folk) 1. Your jewellery is undoubtedly inspired by food. Can you tell us more about this passion, and how it has influenced your work? I was brought up in a household where food and creativity were equally celebrated hence I guess I’ve always strove to fuse these two loves and...

Couscous Summer Salad

Couscous Summer Salad

by Decisive Cravings

(Image credit to Safari Living) Couscous Summer Salad Serves 4 This is a recipe, which has seen an evolution from its original source. It was passed on to my sister by an old colleague, which she then recreated into her own version, and readapted again by me. Despite the...

Strawberry Mint Salad

Strawberry Mint Salad

by Decisive Cravings

(Image credit to Safari Living) Strawberry Mint Salad Serves 2 My Father has been making this recipe since I was a little girl. It was a seasonal treat that he saved for summer along with his famous lemon granita. Over the years I have experimented with his strawberry salad recipe...

Prosciutto wrapped Cantaloupe

Prosciutto wrapped Cantaloupe

by Decisive Cravings

(Image credit to Safari Living) Prosciutto wrapped Cantaloupe Serves 2 – 3 Cantaloupe wrapped in prosciutto is almost always a permanent fixture at our summer family feasts. It perfectly connects the freshness and sweetness of fruit and balances it with the saltiness of this heavenly cured meat. ½...

Jinda Thai

Dinner / Lunch / Sweets / Vegetarian

Jinda Thai

by Decisive Cravings

(Top right: Spring Rolls, Bottom right: Beef boat Noodle soup) Jinda was recommended to me late last October at a Food Blogger event. We were talking about new restaurants we were loving, then Jinda Thai was mentioned and it was the subject of conversation for the next 5 minutes....

Mango, Avocado and Rucola Salad

Mango, Avocado and Rucola Salad

by Decisive Cravings

Mango, Avocado and Rucola Salad Serves 4 – 5 This is a beautifully fresh and flavoursome salad that is perfect for hot summer nights. Minimal ingredients here but their quality and taste make a big impact. Enjoy! 2 Thai Mangos 1 Avocado 1 Orange 1 Lime 5 well sized...

Foodie Profile #5 – Sarah Cowell

by Decisive Cravings

(Image by Hannah Kelly of Hannah Kelly Creative) 1. Sarah, for those that don’t know you, could you describe what you do for a living? I’m a tea specialist and tea teacher so my work involves consulting on tea, plus creating tea-learning experiences. So, I might advise a café on their...

Home Chef's #4 - Lunar New Year Almond Cookies

Home Chef’s #4 – Lunar New Year Almond Cookies

by Decisive Cravings

Here is a recipe for THE almond cookie – widely baked and eaten around Lunar or Chinese New Year. This wonderful recipe has been kindly donated to us by an extraordinary cook and baker that is also a friend and colleague, Rachel Fang. Anyone who has worked with her knows...

Home Chefs #3 - Salted Cocoa Banana Shake with Wattleseed

Home Chefs #3 – Salted Cocoa Banana Shake with Wattleseed

by Decisive Cravings

Home Chefs #3 – Salted Cocoa Banana Shake with Wattleseed Makes 2 glasses This incredible recipe (quick and so flavoursome), has been contributed by a personal friend Trish Hevern. She is a vegetarian, with a real flair for always creating healthy, hearty food packed with flavour and the ingredients...

Mint and Coconut Iced Tea

Mint and Coconut Iced Tea

by Decisive Cravings

Mint and Coconut Iced Tea Makes 1 x 750ml bottle Another super easy recipe you can make at home. Make a big batch, keep it at the ready in the fridge and we are sure this cooling brew will be one of your favourites this summer. 750 mls...

Ginger, Rosemary and Mint Iced Tea

Ginger, Rosemary and Mint Iced Tea

by Decisive Cravings

Ginger, Rosemary and Mint Iced Tea Makes 1 x 750ml bottle This is a super easy recipe you can make at home, using ingredients that are readily available. Do a few bottles at once, keep them in the fridge and have your Iced Tea ready to go when friends...

Hudson Meats - Sausage Making Masterclass

Foodie Stuff / Gifts

Hudson Meats – Sausage Making Masterclass

by Decisive Cravings

(Micah Hewitt: butcher and our teacher for the night – showing us how it’s done) During Good Food Month we were very lucky to be invited to attend a Sausage Making Masterclass with specialty butchers, Hudson Meats. The Boutique butcher and Deli originally hailing from Sydney had just opened its doors in...

Travel: Bali Food - a Mini Guide

Foodie Stuff / Travelling Foodie

Travel: Bali Food – a Mini Guide

by Decisive Cravings

Our fourth trip to Bali recently, re-confirmed that our favourite spots last time are still our favourites and that as always there are a few more to add to the list. Our recommendations in this Bali guide cover Seminyak (plus some of it’s surrounds), Canggu and Ubud. If you...

Gelato Messina

Foodie Stuff / I'm Allergic / Kids / Late night / Snacks / Sweets / Travelling Foodie

Gelato Messina

by Decisive Cravings

(Gelato Messina’s new Fitzroy store in Melbourne) Established in Sydney in 2002, Gelato Messina is an institution Australia wide. 11 years later they decided to call Melbourne their second home – all we ask is what took them so long? Is it worth a trip to Messina? For sweet tooths...

Foodie Stuff / Recipes

Arabella Forge from Frugavore – Foodie Profile #4

by Decisive Cravings

(The lovely Arabella Forge) In our latest Foodie Profile we chat with Nutritionist, Cook and Food Writer Arabella Forge. Arabella is a down to earth soul with a conscientious approach and passion for cooking real food. She has shared this philosophy with the world in her fabulous cook book, Frugavore...

Taste of Melbourne 2013 - Preview Event

Foodie Stuff / Travelling Foodie

Taste of Melbourne 2013 – Preview Event

by Decisive Cravings

Apart from the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, the only other food festival that we genuinely look forward to is Taste of Melbourne. Over four days a little food and wine island sets up Alfresco style on Pelican Lawn at Albert Park lake lined with food stalls showcasing signature dishes from...

Dinner / Foodie Stuff / I'm Allergic / Late night / Lunch / Snacks / Sweets / Vegetarian

Sauced Pasta Bar

by Decisive Cravings

The Chapel Street landscape has changed dramatically in the last five or so years, with furniture shops reopening as cafés, op shops relaunching as Mexican restaurants, and the most recent addition a hair salon turning into a pasta bar. We can all agree that in Melbourne food reigns, much more...

5 Fabulous Foodie Apps

Foodie Stuff / I'm Allergic / Recipes / Travelling Foodie / Vegetarian

5 Fabulous Foodie Apps

by Decisive Cravings

We’re the first to admit it, we spend much more time on our iPhones than we would like and don’t even get us started on the latest Apple iOS7 update. Thing is first it was Facebook and Twitter that took up all of our time reading people’s newsfeed’s and then...

Foodie Profile #3 – Jimmy’s Burgers

by Decisive Cravings

We chat to Melbourne’s real burger King, James Hurlston (a.k.a Jimmy’s Burgers) about his adventures, top 5 burgers and whether he really eats one burger (or more) a day! He also makes his own burgers and has kindly shared some images of his creations with us, below. 1. How...

Review: Seoul Soul

Dinner / Lunch / Vegetarian

Review: Seoul Soul

by Decisive Cravings

If you like food and a restaurant with soul then Seoul Soul on Victoria St will hit the spot. The fit out is sleek and minimalist, making for an intimate, understated but fun environment. Picture high tables decked with grills, making for easy eavesdropping and people watching. Choose from...

Cookie

Dinner / Drinks / I'm Allergic / Late night / Lunch / Snacks / Sweets / Vegetarian

Cookie

by Decisive Cravings

(Stir fried pork belly with red curry, green peppercorns, kaffir lime and green beans) We all know it and we all love it, but sometimes we forget about it: Cookie, is a real treat in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD. Situated in Curtin House, it is also the same building that...

Home Chefs #1 - Chorizo Meatballs

Home Chefs #1 – Chorizo Meatballs

by Decisive Cravings

Home Chefs – Chorizo Meatballs Serves 6. A few years ago an ex-colleague gifted her Grandmother’s Chorizo meatball recipe to us along with a recipe box filled with recipes from all our other colleagues. It is still one of our most cherished gifts and this recipe is definitely the...

Black Sesame Kitchen, Beijing

Foodie Stuff / Travelling Foodie

Black Sesame Kitchen, Beijing

by Decisive Cravings

Black Sesame Kitchen is quite a unique experience for all travellers visiting Beijing. From cooking classes to private dining and their ‘Wine and Dine’ evenings you can experience award winning Chinese cuisine up close or at a distance, it’s kind of like a choose your own food adventure. Choose to...

Dandenong Market

Foodie Stuff / I'm Allergic / Kids / Lunch / Snacks / Sweets / Vegetarian

Dandenong Market

by Decisive Cravings

When it comes to food markets in Melbourne, we’ll admit it we’ve been to the ones that are closest to the CBD purely out of convenience. Victoria Market (the great), South Melbourne Market, Prahran Market and even the Footscray Market (when we used to buy grapes to make wine.) However...

The Smith

Dinner / Drinks / Late night / Lunch / Snacks / Sweets / Vegetarian

The Smith

by Decisive Cravings

(Image courtesy of The Smith) Since it first opened we knew that The Smith was something special. At first glance it may have appeared (aesthetically) to be like many of the new fad restaurants and bars with amazing (but similar) architecture, and there may have even been a whiff of...

Vegan Cream of Spinach Soup

Vegan Cream of Spinach Soup

by Decisive Cravings

Vegan Cream of Spinach Soup (image courtesy of Healthy Blender Recipes.) By Tess Masters from Healthy Blender Recipes Serves 4. 2 cups raw organic fresh spinach 1 cup organic zucchini (about 1 zucchini) 1 cup chopped red onions (about 1 medium onion) 1/4 cup scallions/green onions – (about 6)...

Loam Restaurant

Loam Restaurant

by Decisive Cravings

On Sunday June 30, 2013 Loam Restaurant in Drysdale will close its doors forever. Loam is one of only six Victorian regional restaurants to receive two hats. Several weeks ago, we were lucky enough to dine there before the end of its era. Join us for a visual feast of our...

Foodie Profile #1 – Photographer John Street

by Decisive Cravings

John Street is a man with history and talent…and plenty of it. His schtick? Food photography, in fact some would say he pioneered it, bringing European standards with him from London when he moved to Australia in the seventies. We met by chance at a market, which lead to another...

Coconut and Raspberry Cake (Gluten and Dairy Free)

Coconut and Raspberry Cake (Gluten and Dairy Free)

by Decisive Cravings

Serves 8, best consumed within three days. A few weeks ago we were having afternoon tea with a food photographer, his wife had made us a beautiful cake to enjoy with our tea (pictured). He told us it was gluten free – hard to believe given how moist and delicious...

Where Chefs Eat

Foodie Stuff / Travelling Foodie

Where Chefs Eat

by Decisive Cravings

These days we are eager to try new restaurants based on credibility. Some of us read customer reviews ferociously, others rely on the words of food critics, and some prefer word of mouth; but there is one more category and it’s one we hold in high esteem, that of the...

Andrew's Hamburgers

Dinner / I'm Allergic / Kids / Lunch / Snacks / Vegetarian

Andrew’s Hamburgers

by Decisive Cravings

Andrew’s Hamburgers is a Melbourne burger institution. Over the years we have seen the essence of the burger recrafted with fancy names and flavours, hipster uniforms and logos, but nothing ever compares to the original and Andrew’s Hamburger’s have been producing old school, traditional burgers for years, since 1939 to...

Tsukiji

Foodie Stuff / Lunch / Snacks / Sweets / Vegetarian

Tsukiji

by Decisive Cravings

We don’t have a Tsukiji fish market in Melbourne, but we do have a very mini alternative with the same name. If you are a sushi or sashimi lover then Tsukiji in Prahran is a must visit. It’s more like a Japanese mini mart or deli, and when you walk...

Recipe: Real Hot Chocolate

Recipe: Real Hot Chocolate

by Decisive Cravings

Real Hot Chocolate Serves 1. This Real Hot Chocolate recipe is a simple and old-school approach to a calming, classic drink. Designed to comfort and warm in the colder months, this will be a lovely treat to look forward to before bed or cosy’ing up with a lovely book and...

Review: Rowena Parade Corner Store

Brekkie / Drinks / Foodie Stuff / Kids / Lunch / Snacks / Sweets / Vegetarian

Review: Rowena Parade Corner Store

by Decisive Cravings

Rowena Parade Corner store is one of Richmond’s little gems. Part milk bar, part deli and cafe, Rowena is a cosy, convenient spot with loads of comfort food and classic treats too. Many of our friends and family come here for the famous BELTAC – their signature sanga filled with...

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